The nurse plans care to prevent a dangerous thermal environment for an older adult client who lives in a northern climate of the United States. Which client assessment data does the nurse recognize that can contribute to the risk of hypothermia? (Select all that apply.)

A. It provides monetary benefits to American citizens and legal residents to prevent their dependency on their families.

Explanation: Medicaid primarily provides health coverage rather than direct monetary benefits. Its focus is on ensuring access to medical care for those in need.

B. It provides a minimum level of economic support.

Explanation: While Medicaid may indirectly support individuals by covering medical expenses, its primary purpose is to provide health insurance coverage, not economic support in a general sense.

C. It is designed to help the states defray the expenses for the poor.

Explanation: This option describes the collaborative nature of Medicaid, where both federal and state governments contribute to funding. However, the primary goal is to provide health coverage to eligible individuals rather than defraying general expenses for the poor.

D. It is meant to provide insurance coverage for medical care to the older adult and disabled populations, regardless of their financial situations.

Explanation: Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage for certain individuals and families with low incomes, including older adults and people with disabilities. It is designed to assist individuals who may not have the financial means to afford necessary medical care. Medicaid covers a broad range of medical services, and eligibility is determined based on income, household size, and other factors.

A. Facilitates remote physical assessment and monitoring of chronic conditions

Explanation: Telehealth technology allows healthcare providers to remotely assess and monitor chronic conditions, enabling timely interventions and personalized care plans.

D. Promotes self-management of illness in rural and underserved areas

Explanation: Telehealth technology can help individuals in rural and underserved areas access healthcare services and information, promoting self-management of illnesses and improving overall health outcomes.

E. Decreases costs by reducing hospital readmissions

Explanation: Telehealth technology can contribute to reducing hospital readmissions by enabling remote monitoring, early detection of issues, and timely interventions, ultimately lowering healthcare costs associated with avoidable hospitalizations.

The following options are not accurate in relation to the benefits of telehealth technology:

B. Decreases costs by replacing the role of the nurse with technology

Explanation: Telehealth technology is not meant to replace the role of healthcare professionals, including nurses. Instead, it enhances their ability to provide care by extending access to patients, facilitating communication, and improving monitoring. The goal is to complement healthcare services rather than replace them.

C. Reimbursed by all health care insurances

Explanation: While reimbursement for telehealth services has expanded, it is not universally covered by all healthcare insurances. Coverage varies depending on the payer, state regulations, and the type of telehealth service provided. Reimbursement policies continue to evolve, and not all services may be covered by every insurance plan.